The Loves of My Life: Emma Grede

      The most memorable interviews are usually the most personal. In "Loves of My Life," we delve into the individuals behind their artistry, posing the pressing questions we've been eager to discover the answers to, such as their favorite dining establishments and date-night venues, the contents of their Saved folder on Instagram, their most cherished piece of jewelry, and what might be hiding at the bottom of their handbags. In essence, we explore the small things they cherish in life.

      You may recognize CEO and entrepreneur Emma Grede from her television and red carpet appearances, but she diligently works behind the scenes to establish businesses and advocate for personal development and mental wellness, motivating the next generation of driven women. Following the release of her first book, "Start With Yourself: A New Vision for Work and Life," we spoke with the busy mother and mogul about her inspirations, how she manages to unwind, and who (and what) she holds dearest.

      What’s your top restaurant in the entire world? And what do you usually order?

      My top restaurant in the entire world has to be Scotts in London. It holds so many memories for me and is the place I always choose for special occasions like anniversaries. I've had fantastic girls' dinners there, and whenever I'm back in London, I ensure I visit Scotts. I consistently order the same meal: Dublin Bay prawns and dressed crab. It's delicious.

      Is there anything in your home that carries special sentimental value?

      I'm sentimental about everything in my home; I'm just that kind of person. I tend to collect and hold onto things for far too long. If I had to choose just one thing, it would likely be any baby clothes I have. I find it really challenging to get rid of the outfits my children wore when they were little. I have drawers filled with baby blankets because they hold such a special place in my heart.

      What would we find at the bottom of your handbag?

      You would find several different types of lip balm! I'm obsessed with them. I have some, and my assistant carries extra for me; I just can't live without lip balm. So, I typically have two, three, four, or even five different kinds with me.

      If you could only vacation in one place for the rest of your life, where would that be?

      It would probably be somewhere along the Amalfi Coast, specifically Capri. I adore that region; it's incredibly beautiful and glamorous, and I've had some of the best trips of my life enjoying the water along that coast. I find it to be incredibly romantic and untouched, especially if you visit at the right time of year.

      In your free time, what do you enjoy doing?

      In my spare time, I love reading. A cup of tea and a good book is my version of absolute bliss.

      Do you have a favorite hidden date-night spot?

      My secret date-night spot is Anajak Thai in LA. It's a very low-key restaurant that plays '90s RnB and serves the best Thai food I've ever tasted. It's utterly delicious, and the staff are fantastic.

      Which piece of clothing would you never want to part with and why?

      The piece of clothing I could never part with is the first Chanel bag I was ever given. I've wanted a Chanel bag since I was a child, and my first one is an absolute classic that I still use frequently. I love it dearly.

      What’s your most listened to track on Spotify?

      I can't pinpoint the most played song, but it’s probably something by Whitney Houston or Mariah Carey. My Spotify generally has a "no new music" rule, and I mostly listen to tracks from the mid to late '80s—that's my sweet spot.

      If we were to look in your saved folder on Instagram right now, what would we find?

      A vast number of recipes! I enjoy cooking, and my favorite part of Instagram is watching people create something extraordinary. There’s a woman I’m obsessed with, @whatsupclara, who cooks French cuisine from scratch, with recipes that take four hours, and I think she’s incredible. Truly amazing.

      What city inspires you the most?

      London is, without a doubt, the best city for inspiration. It’s a melting pot of cultures, and people really put thought into their outfits. From an art and history perspective, it’s also the best place.

      What beauty product can you not live without?

      I can't live without Jan Marini's Transformation Cream.

      What’s your ultimate comfort food?

      My ultimate comfort food is crispy aromatic duck with pancakes and hoisin sauce. It's simply the most delicious dish ever.

      What are your top three all-time favorite movies?

      My top three favorite movies... Oh dear! Definitely "Dirty Dancing," and then perhaps "Cinderella" and "Mary Poppins." I don’t watch many films nowadays, so all my favorites are nostalgic classics from my childhood.

      What’s your favorite scent?

      My favorite scent is Chanel Number 22. I’ve worn it for years